The Bluebirds – who have also taken experienced Mexican defender Rodrigo Inigo Del Hoyo on trial – are understood to have offered £750,000 cash for the 6ft 4ins Turner, plus striker Jon Parkin.

But the two clubs had not agreed a fee last night with sources at Coventry claiming that Parkin’s wage demands were the major stumbling block.

Bluebirds boss Malky Mackay confirmed Cardiff’s interest in Turner, saying: “It is something we are trying to get done and we are in talks with Coventry.”

Turner, who has played for England at under-19 level and also qualifies to play for Wales, suffered knee ligament damage which required an operation last season. He hasn’t played since November but he has made over 80 appearances for Coventry and has nearly three years left on his contract at the Ricoh Arena.

Free agent Del Hoyo, 25, played for Club America in Mexico last season and is spending two weeks on trial with the Bluebirds.

“We want to work with Rodrigo for a week or so and we can do that because he is a free agent,” said Mackay.

The Scot has identified central defence as an area which needs strengthening and Anthony Gerrard and Mark Hudson were tested to then limit during Saturday’s 1-1 draw at Portsmouth.

Birmingham-born Turner would certainly provide that and he is also an attacking threat at set-pieces.

CARDIFF City have been drawn at home to Championship rivals Leicester City in the third round of the Carling Cup.

The tie is likely to take place on Tuesday, September 20 – five days before the two sides meet in the Championship.

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